Showdown Weekend

Games of the Week:

#8 Nebraska @ #7 Wisconsin – Nebraska heads to Wisconsin for a showdown of championship contenders. Taylor Martinez looks to lead his Huskers over the Badgers that have smashed anyone that got in their way. Russell Wilson, on the other hand, is looking to keep this freight train rolling. In the end we believe the Badgers balance is too much for the Corn Huskers to overcome on the road. Pick: Wisconsin 31 Nebraska 24

#3 Alabama @ #12 Florida – In years past we have had a hard time picking this game. This year we are not. The front seven of the Tides defense has been dominate and will continue to be this week. They will add Florida RB Chris Rainey to the list of players that have been shut down by the Tide. Pick: Alabama 35 Gators 17

#13 Clemson @ #11 Virginia Tech – This game will tell us a lot about both teams. Clemson is coming off 2 big home upsets… but can Tajh Boyd lead his team to a big road win and put his team squarely in the BCS Championship race? Virginia Tech, on the other hand, has not played a big time opponent. This showdown with Clemson is going to prove if the Hokies are real contenders or destined for just another good season. The Home field is truly an advantage here. Pick: VT 27 Clemson 24

#14 Texas A&M vs #18 Arkansas @ Cowboys Stadium – These 2 top 25 teams are both coming off difficult losses. Arkansas was taken to the woodshed by Alabama while The Aggies blew a big half time lead to Oklahoma State. The QB’s will be the story in this one. We like Tannehill’s versatility. Pick: Texas A&M 38 Arkansas 30

Upset of the Week:

Washington @ Utah – The Huskies are on the road against the Utes of Utah this week and are big underdogs. This game comes down to the Washington offense vs. the Utah defense. We have seen quite a bit of both these teams and like UW QB Keith Price and his 14 TD passes a little bit more than the tough Utah front 4. Pick: UW 42 Utah 31

One to Watch:

Northwestern @ #24 Illinois – This doesn’t seem like a huge game but we will see the return of Dan Persa for Northwestern. We don’t think Northwestern will upset Illinois but they could make a huge statement by knocking off the Fighting Illini!